Cheshire East Consultation ServiceCheshire East Consultation Service

Concerned about a child?

If you are worried about a child or young person, contact the Cheshire East Consultation Service (ChECS).

ChECS is the main point of contact for advice, support and referrals for children and families. This includes early help, safeguarding, and child protection concerns.

When to contact ChECS

Contact us if you are worried about a child’s:

• safety or wellbeing
• care or supervision
• exposure to harm, neglect or exploitation

If you are unsure whether your concern meets the safeguarding threshold, you can still call for advice.

How to contact us

Phone ChECS on 0300 123 5012 (option 3).

A qualified social worker will listen to your concerns and explain what will happen next.

Please do not post or email safeguarding concerns.

Out of hours emergencies

If it is outside normal working hours and you believe a child is at immediate risk, contact the Emergency Duty Team:

Phone: 0300 123 5022

Professionals

If you are a professional making a referral, you must complete the relevant screening tools before contacting ChECS. These help identify the nature and level of concern.

Complete the Family Help referral form and the appropriate screening tools before consulting us.

• Neglect screening tool (MS Word, 189KB) - guidance notes on neglect are available on the Cheshire East Safeguarding Children Partnership (CESCP) website.
• Contextual safeguarding pre-screening tool (MS Word, 132KB)
• Contextual safeguarding assessment tool (MS Word, 394KB)

Need advice before you refer?

If you are unsure which pathway to follow, you can call ChECS for a professional consultation. This helps ensure children and families receive the right support at the right time.

The Family Information Service

Common Assessment Framework

Local safeguarding children's board